Taushubetsu River Bridge Ruins (Former JNR Shihoro Line)

Located in Kamishihoro Town in northern Tokachi, the Taushubetsu River Bridge Ruins is a remnant of the former Japan National Railways’ Shihoro Line, which was decommissioned during privatization. Spanning Lake Nukabira—a reservoir for hydroelectric power—the bridge is submerged for much of the year, only emerging when water levels drop from winter to early summer. This fleeting appearance has earned it the nickname “phantom bridge.”

Made of concrete and stretching 130 meters with 11 graceful arches, the bridge begins to reappear around January when the lake freezes over, evoking the image of an ancient Roman aqueduct. During winter, guided snowshoe tours (fee required) allow visitors to walk across the frozen lake and approach the bridge up close. In spring, as water levels continue to recede, the entire structure comes into view, and by June, the bridge appears to float atop the reflective surface of the lake—an enchanting and photogenic scene.

Though the bridge can be seen from an observation point along National Route 273, the viewpoint is about 750 meters away. To get closer, visitors must either join a paid guided tour or borrow a gate key (fee and advance online reservation required) at the nearby roadside station to access the forest road by car. Given the bridge’s ongoing deterioration and increasing risk of collapse, it's a rare and compelling sight that’s best seen while you still can.